Baked salmon is like a warm hug on a plate; its flaky texture and rich flavor envelop you in comfort. Picture this: a perfectly baked salmon fillet, glistening with a hint of lemon and herbs, ready to melt in your mouth. The aroma wafts through the kitchen, teasing your taste buds and promising an experience that’s nothing short of bliss.
Every time I whip up this baked salmon recipe, I’m transported back to family dinners where we’d gather around the table, laughter echoing as we shared stories. It’s the kind of dish that sparks joy and nostalgia, making it perfect for special occasions or cozy weeknight dinners. Trust me; once you try it, you’ll be counting down the days until you can make it again.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The simplicity of this baked salmon recipe makes meal prep effortless while packing big flavor
- Its vibrant appearance will impress your guests at any dinner party
- You can easily modify the seasonings to suit your taste or what you have on hand
- Perfectly versatile, it’s great served on its own or alongside your favorite sides
I remember the first time I made this dish; my friends were raving about it for weeks afterward!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
-
Fresh Salmon Fillets: Look for vibrant pink fillets with no brown spots for optimal flavor and freshness.
-
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice adds brightness; bottled versions just don’t cut it.
-
Dill: Fresh dill brings a delightful herbal note that perfectly complements the salmon’s richness.
-
Garlic Powder: A pinch of garlic powder enhances flavor without overpowering the fish.
-
Olive Oil: High-quality extra virgin olive oil adds richness and helps achieve that beautiful golden crust.
-
Salt and Pepper: Essential staples; season generously for a well-balanced flavor profile.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures even cooking and that perfect flaky texture everyone loves.
Prepare the Baking Dish: Lightly grease a baking dish with nonstick spray or a drizzle of olive oil. This prevents sticking and keeps cleanup easy.
Season the Salmon: Place the salmon fillets skin-side down in the dish. Drizzle with olive oil, then sprinkle salt, pepper, garlic powder, and fresh dill evenly over each fillet.
Add Lemon Juice: Squeeze fresh lemon juice generously over the seasoned salmon. This brightens up all those flavors beautifully—trust me; it’s like sunshine on your plate.
Bake to Perfection: Slide the baking dish into your preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes. Keep an eye out until the salmon flakes easily with a fork but isn’t dry.
Serve and Enjoy!: Once done, remove from the oven and let it rest for a couple of minutes before serving. Plate it up with your favorite sides like roasted veggies or rice—the ultimate comfort meal awaits!
Enjoy creating this delightful baked salmon recipe that promises not just a meal but an experience filled with warmth, laughter, and joy!
You Must Know
- This baked salmon recipe not only delights the palate but also fills your kitchen with a heavenly aroma
- With its flaky texture and rich flavor, it transforms any weeknight meal into a gourmet experience
- Plus, it’s packed with nutrients, making it a healthy choice for the whole family
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Season the salmon, place it on parchment paper, and bake for about 15-20 minutes until it flakes easily with a fork.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to experiment with marinades like teriyaki or lemon-dill sauce. Toss in vegetables like asparagus or zucchini for a colorful side that bakes alongside your salmon.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover baked salmon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve perfectly cooked salmon, check for doneness at around 12-15 minutes of baking time
- Avoid overcooking; it can dry out quickly
- Always let your fish rest after baking to enhance flavors and moisture retention
Creating this baked salmon recipe was enlightening; my friends couldn’t stop raving about how effortless yet delicious it was.
FAQ
What is the best type of salmon for baking?
Sockeye and Atlantic salmon are both popular choices due to their rich flavor and texture.
Can I bake salmon from frozen?
Yes, just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if using frozen fillets.
How do I know when my salmon is done?
Salmon is perfectly cooked when it flakes easily with a fork and appears opaque throughout.
Baked Salmon
Baked salmon is a delightful dish that combines flaky, tender fish with the bright flavors of lemon and herbs, creating a comforting meal perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a family weeknight dinner or an elegant gathering, this recipe promises to impress with minimal effort. Enjoy the simplicity of preparing fresh salmon seasoned to perfection, making every bite a celebration of flavor and nostalgia.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 1
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 4 oz fresh salmon fillets (1 fillet per serving)
- 2 tsp olive oil
- 2 tsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 tsp fresh dill, chopped
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil.
- Place the salmon fillets skin-side down in the dish.
- Drizzle olive oil over the fillets, then season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and dill.
- Squeeze fresh lemon juice generously over each fillet.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes until the fish flakes easily with a fork.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 232
- Sugar: 0 g
- Sodium: 58 mg
- Fat: 13 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 0 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 25 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg
